Festive fundraisers got into their stride when they dressed in Christmas gear and took part in the annual Jingle Bell Jog and Reindeer Run on Sunday.

Around 400 people turned out to raise money for Rennie Grove Hospice Care by running or walking 1.5km wearing reindeer ears or 5km in red Santa suits.

The sea of jolly joggers were sent on their way by Andy Day from CBeebies, who led a comedy warm-up routine, and his co-stars from this year’s Alban Arena pantomime Cinderella.

One of the participants Samantha Lewis, who completed the Reindeer Run with her husband and children Leo and Amy, said: “Simon and I did the Herts 10K in October to support Grove House and it’s lovely to be able to bring the children along to take part with us in the Reindeer Run.

“Grove House is a great organisation, helping patients and their families. We’ve had lots of cancer in the family so we know how important this is.”

Among the blur of red and white were Jeremy Read, Che Pearce and Jamie Nelson who were the first three Joggers to complete the course and claim their medals from St Albans Mayor Cllr Annie Brewster.

Gillian Barnett, director of fundraising at Rennie Grove Hospice Care, said: “We would like to thank everyone who came along to be part of today’s events, including the volunteers who make it all possible.

“This fantastic level of support from the local community is so important if we are to continue to provide the services at Grove House, which allow us to offer local patients diagnosed with cancer and other life-limiting illness the choice to stay at home with their families – something which is more important than ever at this time of year.”

It is hoped together the races will raise around £10,000.